Unravelling the spatio-temporal pattern of irrigation development and its impact on Indian agriculture.

摘要

Irrigation, the dominant use of water resources, has always remained a decisive factor in agricultural growth and development. The present study provides a critical analysis of inter-regional variations in water resources and irrigation development over successive plan periods (1950-2007) and ascertains the long-term impact of irrigation development on Indian agriculture using tabular, growth and econometric analysis. With impressive irrigation development over successive five-year plans, India possesses the largest irrigated area in the world. However, the positive impact of irrigation development could not be achieved equally across different geographical regions, and unsustainable water resource development in one part coexists with its underutilization in other parts of the country. The Northern region of India showed better performance both in irrigation and agriculture while the Eastern region was found to be poorest in spite of a rich water resource base. Panel data analysis revealed a positive correlation between irrigation and crop yield though with varying degree. The findings of the present study provides a platform for institutional restructuring, policy reframing and technological interventions to improve water use efficiency and develop water resources in a equitable, holistic and sustainable manner.